01Define scope and responsibilities
Separate construction, building services, furniture and IT. Assign a reviewer and a person authorised to confirm corrections for each package. Use approved drawings, specifications and changes as the reference. This checklist organises the inspection; the contract and applicable requirements govern formal acceptance.
02Inspect finishes room by room
Follow a consistent room sequence and number observations. Review surfaces, joints, doors and fitted elements against approved samples and details. Use project-specific tolerances. Check door operation, hardware and maintenance access. Pair close-up photographs with a wider view that identifies the location.
03Perform functional checks
Test agreed lighting scenes, equipment controls and maintenance access. Request the testing and commissioning records required by the project and contract. Qualified specialists must undertake checks requiring specialist equipment or expertise. A realistic user test, such as a video meeting, supports but does not replace technical testing.
04Collect documents and manage snags
Check the agreed as-built information, manuals, warranties and service contacts. Assign a recipient for documents and access credentials; transfer passwords separately through an agreed secure channel. Record each issue with its location, criterion, photograph, owner and due date. Verify corrections before closing entries.
05Prepare for occupation
Coordinate cleaning, staff access, furniture delivery, connectivity and operating instructions. Design acceptance and readiness for the first working day are related but distinct tasks. Provide a contact during the initial operating period. Retain the final issue register and equipment documents for future maintenance and alterations.
Client checklist
- Agree scope and inspection criteria.
- Assign locations and owners to issues.
- Check tests and required documentation.
- Verify corrections before close-out.
Questions and answers
Is one walk-through sufficient?
It does not replace inspections during construction, concealed-work checks or testing. Plan final handover as the conclusion of these activities.
Can occupation start with outstanding issues?
That depends on their nature and the agreed handover conditions. Safety and system readiness require specific assessment.
Related: Office fit-out: stages and scope · Our projects
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